NCERT Clarifies Misleading Reports on Textbook Availability

New Delhi: In response to the news item published in The Hindu on July 9, 2024, titled “Confusion over revised NCERT textbooks for classes VI, IX and XI leave teachers in a tizzy,” the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued a clarification, stating that the report is factually incorrect and misleading.

Incorrect Information on Class VI Textbooks

Contrary to the article’s claim that Class VI NCERT textbooks would take another two months to reach students, NCERT confirms that all Grade 6 textbooks will be made available within July 2024. The reported two-month delay is inaccurate. To ensure a smooth transition for teachers and students to the new curriculum and to provide adequate hands-on experience under experiential learning perspectives, NCERT has already launched a month-long bridge program covering all 10 subject areas for Grade 6. This program is currently in use for teaching.

Clarification on Revised Textbooks for Classes IX and XI

The article’s assertion that it was not properly communicated whether the revised textbooks would include classes IX and XI is also misleading. NCERT reiterates that as of March 2024, according to CBSE’s circular no. Acad. 29/2024 dated March 22, 2024, there are no changes to the existing curriculum or textbooks for classes other than 3 and 6. Schools have been advised to continue using the same textbooks for these classes as they did in the previous academic year (2023-24).

No Shortage of Textbooks for Classes IX and XI

Regarding the reported unavailability of Class IX English and Geography and Class XI Computer Science, Chemistry, and History textbooks, NCERT states that the Regional Production and Distribution Centre (RPDC) in Bangalore, which serves all South Indian states including Tamil Nadu, has met the title-wise demand for these textbooks. No shortage has been reported by RPDC Bangalore.